27 August 2012 Postgraduate research to be in the spotlight

The specialist teaching and industry knowledge that comes out of Lincoln University doesn’t happen by accident.  The depth and extent of research at the University drives the applied learning.

On Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 August 2012, Lincoln University postgraduate students will participate in the annual Postgraduate Conference – to hear and discuss the current ground-breaking research being undertaken at Lincoln University.

Opening the conference this year is Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Māori and Pacifica) Professor Hirini Matunga.  “The conference provides an opportunity to highlight the significance of research and for participants to learn about and celebrate the diversity and quality of the research at the University.

“Research is a vital part of any university as it generates new knowledge to ensure we can meet the future needs of our ever changing world.  I applaud the staff and students for organising a two-day conference whereby new knowledge will be shared and celebrated.”

The conference is a joint initiative with the Lincoln University Students’ Association and over the two days there will be 38 presentations from postgraduate students representing the:

Faculty of Commerce (Commerce)

Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences (AGLS)

Faculty of Environment, Society and Design (ESD)

Bio-Protection Research Centre (Centre of Research Excellence – CoRE)

“The Conference is an amazing opportunity for the postgraduate students to raise the profile of their research and to showcase Lincoln University at the same time”, declares Ivy Harper, Chair of the 2012 Organising Committee.

“The University offers a full range of specialist qualifications so it is great to be able to highlight the diversity of research undertaken here.  For example using community-based partnerships to enhance the adaptive capacity of coastal fishing communities in Cambodia; exploring links between tourism and agriculture in sustainable development; looking at the effects of UV on flavonoid composition and gene expression in Sauvignon blanc grape berries.  The quality and range is impressive.” says Ivy.

The conference will conclude on Wednesday 29 August with a dinner and prize giving.